Despite the risks, the dangerous crossing through Yemen is still one of the busiest migration paths for people from East Africa and the Horn of Africa. Each year, hundreds of thousands continue to take this treacherous journey. Most are motivated by the prospect of finding employment in the Gulf states or in search of better life opportunities in Europe. The alarming pace of the deepening of this crisis has sent shockwaves through humanitarian organizations and governments across the world.
Due to Yemen’s geographic location, the country has become an important transit point for people predominantly fleeing conflict and famine in their home countries. Thousands of people from African, Middle Eastern, and South Asian countries take this perilous trip. They are motivated to come by the promise of better economic opportunity and a life free from fear. As they navigate through Yemen, these migrants often face numerous challenges, including exploitation by smugglers who prioritize profit over safety.
Each year, hundreds of thousands of would-be migrants try the dangerous crossing. They mostly rely on boats to get to Gulf states via the Red Sea. Not only are smugglers often overloading these vessels, they are endangering the lives of their passengers. These desperate conditions and the complete absence of regulatory oversight have led to tragic, unnecessary catastrophes. Tens of thousands of migrants have died in the pursuit of a better life.
The pull factor of Gulf countries attracts many migrants owing to the belief that there are plentiful jobs available. Upon reaching Yemen, many are then subjected to further suffering, such as violent attacks, exploitation, and lack of access to food and water. Unfortunately, the near nine-year-long war in Yemen has only served to exacerbate these challenges. It adds to the challenges faced by those seeking asylum.
Humanitarian organizations have long sounded the alarm over the treatment of migrants in Yemen. According to Stacie E. Nevadomski Berdan, this unfortunate turn of events means that thousands of people are vulnerable to abuse, exploitation, and maltreatment by traffickers and smugglers. As a result, the demand for holistic rescue efforts and survivor protection resources has grown even more pressing.
In fact, over the past few months the world’s eyes have turned toward the increasing death toll of migrants trying to make this dangerous crossing. From capsized vessels to deadly confrontations, incidents are increasingly common, making the need for action more pressing than ever. Governments and NGOs are now collaborating to address the crisis by implementing measures aimed at safeguarding migrant lives during their journeys.
